Teach & Travel September 2023

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NATIONAL TRAVEL ASSOCIATION

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ALEX J. Urdaneta

President, Student and Youth Travel Association President of Viajes A Plus

gGreetings from San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was so nice being with so many of you in Canada this past month. SYTA members came together once again—this time in Winnipeg, Manitoba—to discuss how we can best provide life-enhancing travel experiences to students and young people.

All of us were thrilled with the annual conference and the president’s report from Marcie Ellison-Outerbridge. We are grateful to Marcie for her exceptional service this year. I was also impressed with the membership’s support of the SYTA Youth Foundation during the conference.

I am pleased to be your SYTA President for 2023-24 and I look forward to working with the Board and with you to make SYTA the best association it can be for all of you.

In this first Teach & Travel issue of the 2023-2024 schoolyear, we look at exciting itineraries for incredible destinations in Tennessee, Winnipeg and Ireland. From nature centers to outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, STEM museums and much more, there are endless opportunities for your next student trip.

We also have tips and resources to offer in each issue. This time, we take a look at a few top highlights from the 4th Annual Student Travel Business Barometer, talk about respecting etiquette in different cultures, and prepare for how wildfires can affect your trip.

As always, we love to hear from students and educators too. Check out our conversation with an educator who had a phenomenal travel experience, and how it immediately impacted his students’ lives. We also look at a trip to Israel and how it defied expectations. And lastly, we hear from high school senior Lexi Serra, this year’s winner of “The World Is a Classroom” essay contest.

Please let me know if you have any questions, comments and/or ideas on how SYTA can serve you and the entire membership in more impactful ways. And, please, always consider inviting others to join SYTA.

SYTA STRATEGIC PARTNERS

The SYTA Youth Foundation (SYF) established the Road Scholarship program in 2002 to award funds to youth who are unable to afford the cost of student group trips. Based on the belief that travel is essential for a complete education, it is SYF’s goal to make a positive difference, through travel, in the young lives of our global citizens. Since its inception, the SYTA Youth Foundation has impacted more than 7,750 students. A Road Scholarship is financial aid granted to individuals or groups of five or more who have been nominated by a teacher or youth group leader and who meet criteria within five categories:

Achievement | Need | Initiative/Involvement | Service/Citizenship | Connection

WHO CAN APPLY? Students in grades K-12 and 18 or younger at the time of travel will be considered. Nominations must be submitted by an educator, program leader or designated school official. Nominations submitted by parents or guardians will not be considered.

HOW MUCH IS AWARDED? Up to $1,000 USD will be awarded to an individual and a maximum of $5,000 USD will be awarded to a group nomination. Nominations requesting an award higher than the maximum will not be considered.

sytayouthfoundation.org/road-scholarship

FALL 2023

OPENS:

September 18, 2023

CLOSES:

November 10, 2023

Announced the week of December 4, 2023

SPRING 2024

OPENS: January 24, 2024

CLOSES: March 29, 2024

Announced the week of April 29, 2024

SURFS UP

“The Original” Ron Jon Surf Shop opened in Long Beach Island, New Jersey in 1961, and two years later, the “One-of-a-Kind” Ron Jon opened in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Today, your student group can make one-of-a-kind memories when they visit the flagship, 52,000-square-foot store in Cocoa Beach, filled with the best selection of surf, skate and beach essentials! If your band, orchestra or choral ensemble is coming to the Orlando area, check out the Performance In Excellence program and perform at the Cocoa Beach store. After the performance, your group is presented with a commemorative plaque, and each performer receives a Ron Jon fun pack and 15% discount card. Find details at ronjonsurfshop.com/tourgroups.

THE FIGHT FOR RIGHTS

Alabama Tourism Department Group Tour Manager Rosemary Judkins says Alabama has a large variety of educational tours. “Some of America’s most important historical events started in Alabama,” Judkins said. In Birmingham, the Civil Rights

attractions of the Kelley Ingram Park, the 16th Street Baptist Church and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute are all nearby. In Montgomery, student groups can see more significant places like the bus stop where Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat, sparking the birth of the modern Civil Rights struggle. Just one block from the State Capitol is the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s church. Meanwhile, Selma is home to several popular group stops including the Edmund Pettus Bridge, where “Bloody Sunday” took place, and the National Voting Rights Museum. Learn more at alabama. travel.

FOLLOW YOUR NOSE

New to World of Coca-Cola, groups can visit the reimagined Scent Discovery experience. Discover the scent library featuring 22 scents across categories like citrus, fruity, woody, floral, and spicy, paired with 44 beverage suggestions! Step into an immersive Coke Bottle experience with fizzing audio and unique photo opportunities. Participate in a competitive scent-guessing game to learn how scent connects to memories

GO GREEN

Propagate delight inside The Leaf, a new world-class horticultural attraction in Assiniboine Park. Journey through four distinct worlds from the tropics to the Mediterranean. Music groups can play in the stunning Performance Garden, while learning opportunities await about Canada’s Indigenous culture in the Indigenous Gardens. Visit the Kitchen Garden to learn about sustainability and cooking with potential workshops inside this living classroom. To learn more about how The Leaf can fit into a student itinerary, visit winnipeggroups.com.

and transport us to special places. This educational journey offers guests an engaging way to learn about scent categories and sensory connections. At Scent Discovery, scent can take you anywhere. Visit worldofcoca-cola. com/groups/school-field-trips for a Teacher Toolkit and details.

CELEBRATING PEACE

Shores & Islands Ohio is home to the stunning observation deck at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial at Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island. A Doric column rising 352-feet over Lake Erie, this monument was established to honor those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. Your students have the incredible opportunity to travel via ferry boat to the island, then to the top of the memorial for jaw-dropping vistas. They will also appreciate a walk through the National Park Service-operated visitor’s center, which offers exhibits around the War of 1812, the armament of the time, the specifics of the battle that turned the tide of the war, and more. For more details, visit shoresandislands.com/ groups.

Photo © Tourism Winnipeg

DESTINATION UPDATES

SOUNDS OF HISTORY

Founded in 1842, the New York Philharmonic is the oldest symphony orchestra in the United States, and one of the oldest in the world. Jaap van Zweden became Music Director in 2018-19, succeeding titans including Bernstein, Toscanini and Mahler. If you’re planning a trip to New York in the spring, consider a Philharmonic show like Sol Gabetta, Elim Chan, and Scheherazade, March 7-9. Later that month is Mendelssohn, Tan Dun, and Joel Thompson, March 21-24. And April 25-27 is Hilary Hahn and the Sounds of Spain. For group discounts and more info, head to nyphil.org.

NATURAL BEAUTY

The new Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City is now open! With a unique, spectacular organic design informed by nature, the Gilder Center offers experiences to enjoy, engage and be enriched. A new fivestory atrium acts as a gateway from Columbus Avenue. Once inside, groups will enjoy Louis V. Gerstner, Jr. Collections Core, featuring three stories of floor-to-ceiling exhibits with more than 3,000 objects; the Susan and Peter J. Solomon Family Insectarium, featuring the largest live leafcutter ant exhibit in the U.S.; the year-round Davis Family Butterfly

Vivarium, with up to 80 species of free-flying butterflies; and Invisible Worlds, an extraordinary 360-degree immersive science-and-art experience that reveals how all life is connected. See amnh.org/gilder to reserve tickets for your group’s visit.

TIME TRAVEL FOR STUDENTS

At Jamestown Settlement, a museum of 17th-century Virginia history and culture, students can explore gallery exhibits and life-size recreated settings to learn about the culture of the Virginia Indians who occupied the landscape for centuries,

the arrival of English colonists in Jamestown in 1607 to establish America’s first permanent English colony, and the first documented arrival of West Central Africans in 1619, leading to cultural encounters and events that planted the seeds of a new nation. At the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, they can embrace the tumult and victory of the Revolutionary period with engaging gallery exhibits and outdoor recreations of a Continental Army encampment and Revolution-era farm. For tickets and events, visit jyfmuseums.org.

Students explore 17th-century cooking techniques in Jamestown Settlement’s re-created fort. Photo © Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation

THE 4TH ANNUAL STUDENT TRAVEL BAROMETER

sSYTA has released the 4th annual edition of the Student Travel Business Barometer, the only annual quantitative data resource of its kind for domestic and international student group travel includes trend data for previous years and provides forecast data on the coming year.  The Business Barometer was established by SYTA and BONARD in 2019, and it provides an analysis of trends and industry growth from 2019 through 2022. It has established sector-specific and globally recognized consistent reporting, delivering trend data and insight into key developments shaping the industry. Here is a summary of the key findings and overall outlook for the near future, based on the data gathered from a stable sample of 140 tour operators and travel and education agencies from 22 countries worldwide.

354,000 STUDENTS TRAVELED IN-COUNTRY IN 2022

In-country student group travel experienced a robust recovery in 2022, surpassing the expectations of tour operators. Whereas tour operators initially anticipated that over 295,000 students would embark on in-country trips, the actual number was nearly 354,000, exceeding expectations by 20%. This means in-country travel reached 54% of its pre-pandemic volume in 2022. The recovery was primarily led by tour operators based in the U.S., where student groups resumed travel several months ahead of the rest of the world.

267% MORE STUDENTS TRAVELED IN-COUNTRY IN 2022

With those 354,000 students traveling, that means 267% more students traveled in-country in 2022 compared to 2021. Looking ahead to 2023, 47% of tour operators have highly optimistic expectations, aiming to achieve more than 80% of their pre-pandemic booking volume from 2019—by 2025, 66% of respondents expect to reach their pre-pandemic volumes.

MORE THAN 10% INCREASE IN PRICES OVERALL

Majority of tour operators saw prices increase by more than 10% over 2019 figures for in-country trips. Transportation— covering bus, train, and flight tickets—increased more than any other trip component, by more than 15%. The second largest increase was for accommodation. Prices are expected to climb for all trip components throughout 2023. Tour operators noted that price increases in the first quarter of 2023 were more significant than anticipated.

60,000 STUDENTS TRAVELED OUT-OF-COUNTRY

Tour operators predicted a substantial recovery in 2022 for out-of-country travel, estimating that around 59,000 students would travel abroad. As with in-country travel, the actual number of students 2022 exceeded expectations. This represented a significant (198%) increase over the previous year. The UK became the leading destination, being chosen by 24% of customers in the student group travel sector. This popularity was primarily driven by both U.S.-based and Europe-based tour operators, a substantial number of whose customers chose the UK (21% and 52%, respectively). As many as 57% of out-of-country trips took place as scheduled, a significant increase from 2021, when 9% of trips were executed as planned. As travel restrictions were lifted, a significant portion of out-of-country trips proceeded as planned, with minimal cancelations. A complete recovery in out-of-country travel may require a few more years.

To read the full report, head to syta.org/student-travel-research.

JOSHUA SHOLLER: CREATING LIFE-LONG MEMORIES

For over a decade, Joshua Sholler has been teaching and leading the music program at Reading Community Schools. Sholler says he went on two student trips to Disney World with his band program while in high school, and it created life-long memories. “I knew that when I eventually had a band/choir program of my own, I would want to take my groups on trips to give them a similar experience,” Sholler said. In fact, he even uses the same tour operator as his high school director: Educational Tours, Inc.

Recently, Reading took an incredible trip to New Orleans with 60 students, and Sholler had an unforgettable time. We asked him to tell us more about the journey and his approach to student travel.

WHAT INSPIRED THIS TRIP AND WHY DID YOU GO WHERE YOU DID?

My groups have traveled 4 separate times now. An overnight trip to Chicago in 2015 (one full bus), a multiple day trip to Disney World in 2017 (2 full buses), a multiple day trip to NYC (almost 3 full buses), and just recently we flew to New Orleans with 60 participants. We were supposed to go to Nashville in 2021 but the pandemic took its toll and cancelled that trip. I try to choose my destinations based on many different factors. Does the city have a history of music, what are the ‘things to do or see’ while we are there, what unique performance venue is available for our students to perform at?

HOW WAS THE TRIP?

The trip was truly phenomenal from start to finish. I thought everything went exceptionally well and the planning was

top notch as always. My students LOVED the entire experience! About a third of them have never left the tri-state area and a little over a third of them had never flown on an airplane before. This was an experience so many of them will never forget, nor will I.

MANY OF YOUR STUDENTS COMMENTED MONDAY WAS THE HIGHLIGHT, CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THAT?

We started the day by going to the swamp and taking a boat tour of a local bayou/river where the kids were able to see many alligators, birds, and other animals. It was awesome to have some ‘big boys’ swim right up next to the boat. From there, we went to the Riverwalk Outlets at the Port of New Orleans to eat lunch, shop and kill some time before heading over to the World War 2 Museum for our performance. The band and choir set-up in the courtyard

of the museum with the band performing first, followed by the choir. I am always nervous when we perform for a crowd in a different city, as I worry that it will just be our chaperones watching us perform, but I was beyond thrilled that many other tourists and museum guests stopped to listen to both groups.

Each group had a terrific performance and then we had a short amount of time to explore the phenomenal World War 2 museum. This was seriously one of the best museums I have ever been to. After that, we hopped on the bus and went on our Steamboat cruise of the Mississippi while being entertained by a live jazz combo and enjoying an incredible New Orleans cuisine buffet. I was worried many of the kids would not try all of the new food but boy was I wrong... the kids raved about the food and a few even said it was one of the best meals they had ever had.

DID ANY ONE MOMENT STAND OUT?

During the jazz cruise, when the jazz group that was playing took a break, I asked one of the members if our choir could sing one of our songs for the crowd gathered on the top deck. They graciously agreed and so we gathered everyone up as quickly as we could and began singing an acapella arrangement of “Down by the Riverside.” About halfway through the song, an impressive and unexpected firework show starts going off along the river behind the group and it was as crazy and chaotic as you can imagine. It threw us off for a hot second and then we miraculously recovered and finished strong with fireworks in the background! The crowd went wild at the end.

WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES ETI STAND OUT?

Quite simply, the planning, organization,

response time, customer service, and their absolute dedication to make sure students have the absolute best experience while traveling. ETI understands the magic of traveling with a group of students and works to create that magic in each trip they prepare and plan. I also believe they have an exceptional team that works together to get the job done. They also work to ensure the director can enjoy the trip too. Traveling with a large group of students can be stressful, but ETI tries to do everything in their power to help alleviate as much of that stress as possible.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO SAY TO OTHER EDUCATORS CONSIDERING TRAVEL?

Travel has been essential to building my program in Reading. We are a very small rural school with only one blinking yellow traffic light in town.

Our graduating class is typically 50-60 students. There are many factors that have helped to grow my program, and traveling is a big one.

Our trips run on 2-year cycles, meaning we start planning our next trip soon and will announce this fall as we will travel again in 2025. This helps students to have more time to fundraise and for families to save. Traveling can open up a whole new world to your students. Lastly, because we are a small rural school with lower socioeconomic status and do not have the resources that a much larger school may have, there are many students who have traveled now with my group that may never get to have an experience like this ever again. To be able to provide the trips we have to our student population is a reward I will forever cherish.

WHERE THERE'S SMOKE:

PREPARING FOR WILDFIRES

aAs the pandemic fades away, a new challenge for travel has arrived: wildfires. Thanks to a warming climate that spurs on more lightning, the frequency of wildfires has increased around the world, from Australia to California, and most recently, Canada. And not only do the fires themselves create a dangerous situation, but the smoke and smog drifts out for hundreds of miles.

So, let’s take a look at how wildfires might affect your travel in the future.

HOW IT AFFECTS US

This smoke reduces visibility and its small particles can be dangerous for health, especially for young children, whose lungs aren’t fully developed, and people with underlying chronic conditions like emphysema, asthma and heart disease. Even the fittest of us may experience shortterm symptoms like shortness of breath, irritated nasal passages and coughing.

HOW TO AVOID THEM

Unfortunately, wildfires are very hard to predict more than a few days out. However, you can at least keep track of current conditions with resources like AirNow.gov, which provides air quality, forecasts and interactive maps. Slightly easier to forecast is the smoke trajectory, as prevailing winds can give an idea of where it will blow. You could potentially end up near a wildfire but largely unaffected by it, if the wind sends the smoke in the other direction.

It’s also helpful to think about when and where you’re taking your trip. If you’re hoping to head to a state or

country with historically frequent wildfires, consider going outside of May through August, when fires are most likely and summer weather struggles to defuse smoke.

HOW SMOKE AFFECTS TRAVEL

As we saw this summer with the Canadian wildfires, smoke can end up in unexpected places like New York City if you’re unlucky enough. There’s no sense in staying up at night worrying about this low possibility, but it is worth preparing for.

This is yet another case where travel insurance proves its worth. Depending on your plan, it may cover flight delays caused by reduced visibility from the smog. Insurance may also cover meals, accommodations and transportation costs if you end up stranded somewhere. This summer, some airlines themselves were issuing waivers allowing passengers to reschedule their flights at no additional cost.

STAYING HEALTHY

If you find your group caught in

wildfire smoke while travelling—or even embarking on a trip despite the smoke—it’s important to be prepared. First, consider replacing all outdoor activities with indoor experiences, where the HVAC system can help filter air. You may not have a choice, as many events are cancelled and attractions are closed when smoke gets bad. Having a backup itinerary is a huge help.

Second, depending on the air quality, you might consider sending anyone on the trip with respiratory issues home early. It’s sad, but for their own safety. Third, make sure to wear N95 or other respirator masks when moving around outside. Fourth, you can treat minor symptoms with eye drops and nasal spray.

Finally, if the air quality is decent enough to brave the outdoors but still not quite perfect, consider downgrading the intensity level of whatever you’re doing. Instead of taking the long, scenic route with lots of hiking, this might be one time where shortcuts are called for.

MOUNTAINS, MUSIC & MORE in

wWith eight bordering states, Tennessee is at the crossroads of America—a central hub of rich culture, natural beauty and history.

Known as The Volunteer State thanks to a strong tradition of military service, this landlocked gem boasts a wide array of options for student groups seeking variety. From Memphis in the west to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the east, Tennessee has a phenomenal amount of things to do, see and hear.

Of course, when it comes to student travel, we strongly recommend giving students novel experiences to expand their worldview and offer new ways of learning. So, let’s start with the urban hubs, which present the perfect opportunity for more rural and suburban students to experience city life and culture.

On the western edge of Tennessee, bordering Arkansas and Mississippi, lies Memphis, filled with rich history and cultural experiences. The city is known for Beale Street, famous for its many blues clubs and bars, giving birth to some of the greatest classic and modern acts in America.

TENNESSEE Marvelous

To get an idea of why more than 1,000 songs have mentioned “Memphis” in their lyrics, visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

Created by the Smithsonian Institution, this museum tells the story of musical pioneers who, for the love of music, overcame racial and socio-economic barriers to create the music that shook the entire world. Thousands of students have participated in the museum’s Education Program. Also near Beale Streat are the Memphis Music Hall

Graceland. Photo © Andrea Zucker, Memphis CVB

Historic RCA Studio B. Photo © Donn Jones, Country Music Hall of Fame Museum

of Fame next to a Hard Rock Café, the Blues Foundation’s Blues Hall of Fame, old-school soda fountain

A. Schwab Trading Company, and multiple great performance venues.

Next, head to Graceland , the one-of-a-kind home of Elvis Presley, to learn how a boy from humble beginnings became known as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. This museum carries on his legacy with videos, photos, memorabilia, stage costumes and much more—including an automobile museum, an updated Elvis ’68 exhibit, and a new exhibit about The Making of Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis.

To dive into history, consider the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum to learn make sure to visit the National Civil Rights Museum , located at the historic Lorraine Motel, where civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated. It’s a powerful experience with interactive historical and contemporary exhibits covering slavery, voting rights, immigration,

Jim Crow and much more.

For a nature fix, you can visit the Memphis Zoo, featuring polar bears, sea lions, giant pandas and more, including the new four-acre naturalistic environment for hippos, crocodiles and other animals native to Africa’s Zambezi River valley.

Heading east, while in Tennessee, you’ll definitely want to visit Nashville, the capital and most populous city of the state. Dubbed “Music City” thanks to its massive influence on the industry, especially country music, Nashville is full of fun and culture, along with history and nature—not to mention two dozen quality venues for students to perform, and music festivals in spring.

First off, you’ll want to check out the city’s newest museum, the National Museum of African American Music, dedicated to preserving and celebrating the many music genres created, influenced, and inspired by African Americans.

Parthenon Centennial Park, Country Music Hall of Fame Museum Record Wall. Photos © Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation

Then, stop into Madame Tussauds for a gallery of more than 60 wax figures focused entirely on musicians. It’s an incredible photo op that also teaches music history.

Then head to the renowned Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum , celebrated for its broad cultural impact, educational mission, and unrivaled collection of historically important artifacts related to country music. The 350,000-square-foot museum is home to the historic RCA Studio B, the oldest surviving record studio in Nashville. You can start your visit with a tour and group recording session here, joining the ranks of legends like Elvis and Dolly, before moving onto a self-guided tour through the rest of the museum. Students will also enjoy the Taylor Swift Education Center, with programs designed to be curriculum-connected, whether it’s the language arts of writing lyrics or the STEAM of music engineering.

Also in Nashville is the famous Grand Ole Opry, the world’s longest-running live radio show and the stage that helped make country music famous. Catch a show together for a fun time, then get an exclusive look at what happens behind the scenes with the post-show Opry Backstage Tour. And make sure not to miss out on the “Athens of the South” with the world’s only full-scale replica of the

National Museum of African American Music.

Photo © Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation

Thunderhead.

Photo © Dollywood Parks & Resort

WonderWorks.

Photo © Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Parthenon , located in the beautiful Centennial Park.

Finally, it’s time to head to the eastern end of the state, home of the Great Smoky Mountains. On the outer edge of the mountains, you’ll find Pigeon Forge, a city largely known for fun times and amusement parks, including Dolly Parton’s Dollywood Parks & Resort Spanning 160 acres, this park offers more than 50 world-class rides, daily live music, master craftsmen, and delicious food, all surrounded by breathtaking views. You can check out new rides like the Big Bear Mountain, the longest coaster in Dollywood, featuring a top speed of 48 mph, multiple launches, tunnels and a waterfall.

Another great visit is WonderWorks, a science-focused indoor amusement park with more than 100 hands-on exhibits, perfect for students of all ages. Make person-sized bubbles, experience what an earthquake feels like, climb a glow-in-the-dark ropes course, and much more. For a more history-focused adventure, head to the TITANIC Museum Attraction, an interactive museum designed to look like the infamous ship that features more than 400 artifacts. Also check out Alcatraz East Crime Museum, with interactive displays and artifacts covering criminal intent, criminal profiles, victims’ stories, law enforcement, forensic science, and more.

Finally, it’s time to venture into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at Gatlinburg. This mountain town is the gateway to the park and shouldn’t be skipped over. Explore the depths of the ocean at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Enjoy both thrills and amazing views from Anakeesta , a mountaintop adventure park with a famous gondola, treetop skywalk, and a single-rail mountain coaster. Then you can head to the 500,000-acre national park for a day of hiking and beauty, where you can see waterfalls, wildflowers and endless wildlife.

IN WINNIPEG CELEBRATE CULTURE AND COMMUNITY

sSituated at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, with US states North Dakota and Minnesota to the South, is Winnipeg, a multicultural destination that serves as both a classroom and a playground for student groups looking for learning and adventure.

As the Canadian province of Manitoba’s capital city, Winnipeg is steeped in Indigenous and postEuropean-arrival history, while also boasting a contemporary flair. Ready to go? Planning your itinerary is easy with this selection of popular student attractions.

HISTORY AND CULTURE

The Forks National Historic Site is an ideal starting point for getting a sample of the many facets of Winnipeg. This nine-acre park is located on Treaty No. 1 lands, and evidence of its Aboriginal inhabitants dates back 6,000 years. It blends the past and present, with artifacts, exhibits, and art, as well as a park, amphitheater, and market. Educational tours are available, including “Where Our Stories Meet,” a seasonal, guided tour that covers the roots of the First Nations and beyond, and “One Heart, Two Rivers, Four Directions,” a self-guided, interactive walking tour accessed via the Parks Canada National App.

Also on site is the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, a must for student groups. With a focus on Indigenous history and communities, the Museum touches on the difficult topics of colonialism and genocide, while also encouraging reflection and reconciliation. Stories are told through exhibits and event series, and tours of the galleries are led by experienced guides. Before departing, ascend the Israel Asper Tower of Hope for a 360-degree view of downtown Winnipeg.

Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site and Fort Gibraltar offer opportunities to become immersed in the past, with historical reenactments and demonstrations performed by costumed interpreters. In addition to tours conducted at both sites, Lower Fort Garry also has workshops, such as cooking, blacksmithing, and candle making. Note that the majority of these programs run in the summer months, though Fort Gibraltar puts on Festival du Voyageur, a large winter celebration, yearly in February.

BY ALLISON KAY BANNISTER

SCIENCE AND NATURE

Set on 660 acres of reclaimed urban green space, FortWhyte Alive provides robust programming for students from grades K-12, covering topics ranging from wildlife adaptation, wetlands protection, history of the area’s early peoples, biodiversity, ecology, sustainability and more. Groups can also rent equipment, hike the trails, or explore the on-site Nature Shop.

Science gallery, museum, and planetarium all in one, Manitoba Museum is a hub for learning and imagination. Browse the nine interpretive galleries filled with curiosities that span millions of years, soak in the wonders of the night sky or discover the latest space breakthroughs with a planetarium show, or get hands on with interactive science and technology exhibits. There are more than 30 student-oriented programs, from mummies to rocks

Winnipeg Art Gallery. Photo © April Carandang / Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

Photo © Mike Peters / The Forks National Historic Site. Photo © Mike Peters

and fossils to human cells to Inuit history—to name a few. This awardwinning museum is not to be missed! Continue your journey into the natural world at Assiniboine Park , which is home to a park, zoo, and botanical sanctuary called The Leaf. The zoo features wildlife from across the globe, as well as wagon rides, a dinosaur exhibit, and Summer Zoo Chats on a variety of subjects. At The Leaf, the rich diversity of plant life is presented in four distinct biomes, plus six gardens within the nearly 30-acre landscape. The park itself is a public greenspace that’s open year-round, 24 hours a day.

ARTS AND PERFORMANCE

Students interested in music, theater and visual arts have a number of options to visit in Winnipeg. At Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, groups can not only see a show, but also attend pre-show chat or post-show talkback—and older students could also take part in the Young Expressions and Backstage Pass programs.

There’s also Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra , currently celebrating its 75th year. See a concert, including special performances such as BMO Night at the Movies, Thursday Classics, and Saturday Classics. Younger students, grades 4-6, will enjoy the Adventures in Music program, which provides an introduction to the world of symphonic music. A curriculum-based study guide and lesson plans are provided to teachers at registration.

Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG) holds a collection of 27,000-plus artworks covering multiple centuries, cultures, and types of media—and it’s also host to the largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art in the world. With the recent addition of the contemporary landmark, Qaumajuq, it has additional appeal as an architectural destination. WAG-Qaumajuq offers student tours and workshops suitable for grades K-12.

The Hermetic Code, Assiniboine Park, Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. Photos © Mike Peters

OTHER COOL THINGS TO DO

For something truly original, check out The Hermetic Code tour. Inside Manitoba Legislative Building are mysteries and marvels, uncovered by Dr. Frank Albo. From the sphinxes on the roof to numerological codes, Freemasonic symbols, and hieroglyphic inscriptions hidden within the building’s walls, there are interesting finds around every corner.

Unwind and have some fun after a week of learning at Across the Board Game Café. They have an impressive board game library that will pique any interest, and satisfy groups big and small. Knowledgeable staff are available to assist with choosing games and with rules explanations. There’s also a café with a bistro-style menu.

Finally, there’s Activate, a different kind of gaming facility that takes the entertainment off the table and onto the floor. Groups of 3-5 play arcade-style games by jumping, climbing, diving, and maneuvering between eleven interactive rooms. Engaging, challenging and exciting, this activity is perfect for creating a memorable closing to your trip. Looking for more ideas or planning support? The experts at Tourism Winnipeg and Travel Manitoba are here to help with arranging bookings and creating custom itineraries!

Manitoba Museum. Photo © Ian McCausland / Across the Board Game Café.

Courtesy Photo / The Forks National Historic Site. Photo © Mike Peters

ENDLESS BEAUTY ON THE EMERALD ISLE

A verdant island filled with a captivating blend of rich history, vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, Ireland is one of the top destinations anywhere for groups of any age.

Whether students are seeking to deepen their understanding of Irish heritage, engage in outdoor adventures or connect with the friendly locals, the “Emerald Isle” is a destination that offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration, learning and creating lasting memories.

From the “Wild Atlantic Way” in the west to “Ireland’s Ancient East,” there’s far more to see and do in this island nation than you can fit in one trip, so we’re to help give just a few of the highlights.

To start, you’ll likely arrive in Dublin, the vibrant capital city of Ireland on the eastern coast. Here you’ll

Blarney Castle, Dublic Castle (page 35). Courtesy Photos

find one of the most important buildings, Dublin Castle, which began as a Viking settlement centuries ago, became a castle in the 13th century, and is now a beautiful building full of history. Over 700 years, it served as a military fortress, prison, treasury and court of law. Today, your group can tour the state apartments, undercroft, chapel royal, heritage centre and restaurant. Or head a bit north of town to the sprawling Malahide Castle, set on 250 acres of parkland, with an award-winning playground, “fairy trail,” butterfly house, old abbey ruins, interior tours, the Talbot Botanic Gardens and more.

Then, you can head to the Old Library in Trinity College, home to the legendary Book of Kells. The library on its own is stunningly gorgeous, but it’s well worth seeing this 9th century treasure up-close. This illuminated manuscript is unbelievably intricate and full of symbolism, with ornate Latin text and artful illustrations.

Another popular attraction is St. Patrick’s Cathedral, built in the 13th century in honor of Ireland’s patron saint. It’s a leisurely, self-guided experience where you can enjoy the beauty of the beloved cathedral’s stained-glass windows, expansive bell tower and an organ with more than 4,000 pipes. You can also see the grave of Jonathan Swift, author of “Gulliver’s Travels” and “A Modest Proposal.”

One of the city’s newer museums is the General Post Office Museum, which acts as an immersive, interactive experience telling of how the building acted as the stronghold of the 1916 Easter Rising against British rule. For a bit more of a hidden gem, visit the National Print Museum, an immersive and student-friendly museum full of historic printing equipment, exploring and championing the history of print since the inventions of Johann Gutenberg.

Next, we head to the southern coast

for County Cork, home of Blarney Castle, famous for the Blarney Stone, said to give the gift of eloquence (or of gab) to those who kiss it. Built nearly 600 years ago, there’s hours of fun to be had exploring the unusually large castle tower house, banquet hall, dungeon, kitchen and more—plus 60 acres of gardens, home to ferns, carnivorous plants, boardwalks, Great Trees, and even a Poison Garden.

Also in Cork is the Cobh Heritage Centre, which commemorates the town as a key port of call for Irish emigration, including for Annie Moore, the first person to ever be processed at Ellis Island, on January 1, 1892. The centre also delves into two famous ships, including the Titanic, which ported at Cobh (then called Queenstown) on the way out, with 123 passengers loading in. The other ship is the Lusitania, an ocean liner with nearly 2,000 people on board that was sunk by a German submarine torpedo. A rescue flotilla was launched from Cobh, saving 761 lives.

Head west and you’ll arrive at the Ring of Kerry, a scenic 110-mile road traveling through stunning landscapes, coastal villages and historic sites in County Kerry. After savoring that,

drive north and you’ll come to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, the most complete medieval castle in Ireland. Take a tour of this iconic fortress, see how the lords and ladies of this castle lived, and hear stories of battles and bravery and enjoy stunning views across the idyllic Clare countryside—plus, the enchanting woods and walled garden of the Folk Park.

Further up the coast are the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most stunning natural attractions in the world, given UNESCO Global Geopark status in 2011. Stretching over 700 feet high across five miles, you can give your students jaw-dropping views of the sea cliffs along with huge colonies of seabirds, from puffins to peregrines.

Finally on the west coast is Galway, a vibrant city known for its artistic and bohemian atmosphere with a love of traditional music. Actually, all of Ireland has a love of traditional music, and they gladly welcome student groups putting on impromptu concerts, whether it’s on a stage, in the streets, or even in a pub (don’t worry the locals will make sure none of your kids try to sneak a pint).

While here, make sure to check out the markets, cafes and bistros to enjoy the incredible local flavors. Enjoy a stroll along the beach at the Salthill Promenade, and kick the wall at the end for good luck. Then visit the Galway Cathedral, designated “the last great stone cathedral built in Europe.” You can also take a daytrip out of town to the “wild” Connemara National Park, famous for its ponies, lush greenery and unique habitats. Or head to Kylemore Abbey, with a remarkable Victorian castle with walled gardens, an enchanting neo-gothic church, and handmade products from the Benedictine nuns.

Trinity College, Cliffs of Moher. Courtesy Photos

FOR EDUCATORS WHO PLAN STUDENT TRAVEL THE LEADING SOURCE

teachtravel.org

NAVIGATING CULTURAL ETIQUETTE

wWhile growing up, my parents often reminded me, “Mind your manners.” Those manners included not eating with your mouth open and making noises, leaving a tip at a restaurant, waiting patiently in line, not standing too close to others, saying please and thank you, and being treated equal as a woman. Little did I know, as a child, that these we were American customs and rules of etiquette.

At age 17, I spent my summer abroad as an exchange student in the Netherlands. That summer, I explored the Netherlands as well as Germany and England. It was an eye-opening experience, especially in terms of cultural etiquette.

I learned that the Dutch often greet people by air kissing three times near the cheek. Talk about an invasion of my space. They also eat meals with a knife and fork, including sandwiches, with the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right hand. To this day, I still use a knife and fork when eating most meals. I discovered that the “OK” sign was disrespectful in Germany. I found out that the British are sticklers for queuing (waiting in line) and

are polite and courteous as they wait, unlike many Americans.

In Singapore, they do not tolerate people throwing gum on the ground, so they made chewing gum illegal. When I arrived at the Singapore airport, I threw out all my packs of gum to avoid accidently popping a piece in my mouth. The Japanese think tipping is rude. To them, it signifies, “they should take the tip money to get more training.”

Fast forward 42 years after visiting my first foreign countries and I have now explored 93 countries on all 7 continents. During my journeys, I have encountered numerous cultural etiquettes, some that I was aware of and others that I learned the hard way.

What exactly is cultural etiquette? It’s a code of conduct that is passed down through societies from generation to generation and refers to the cultural guidelines of what is appropriate or inappropriate and what is polite and impolite. As one travels, you encounter these unique traditions that often put you in awkward situations. It is how we react to these cultural etiquettes that is

most important.

My biggest cultural shocks occurred during my travels around India. I flew from Paris to New Delhi, and was seated in the middle of the plane. When the airplane landed, I expected the people behind me to allow me to disembark, but not one person stopped and allowed me to exit. How rude! I was the last one off. As I explored India and waited in line, the locals always jumped in front of me. How rude! When a tour guide explained that this was Indian culture, that Indians feel queues are a deterrent to the normal pace of day-to-day life, I was no longer offended and began to push my way toward the front.

The stories could easily go on, so how does one navigate all this? As educators who lead students on trips, it is our responsibility to research cultural etiquette before you arrive. Goodtourismblogger.com has a great article about this topic, “Cultural Etiquette: Navigating Customs and Traditions with Respect and Grace.”

Author Kaushal Chaklaslya states, “It is vital we familiarize ourselves with

BY JULIE BECK

customs and traditions. By doing so, we will foster significant connections, avoid unintentional offense, and create tremendous stories.” The three key areas that she focuses on include (1) greetings and gestures, (2) dining etiquette and (3) open-mindedness and sensitivity.

I have to chuckle about gestures because it reminded me of an experience in Greece. I was leading a college study abroad trip and observed a man playing a bouzouki, a Greek instrument. As I started to walk away, he asked for money. I declined, and he made a gesture toward me (moving his hand from side to side) and called me an obscene name. Personally, I was not offended, even though his reaction was inappropriate, but I knew it was a good teachable moment for the students. I simply walked away without responding.

Educators must have conversations with their students about how to handle similar situations. If a person is rude to you, especially because you do not understand the cultural differences, how do you react? Often, it is best to apologize or simply walk away, but most importantly, be tolerant of the differences. Leaderonomics.com stated eight etiquette tips when leading student groups overseas.

» Have an open mind and be willing to learn.

» Understand value systems.

» Know how to greet one another.

» Be aware of personal space.

» Find out gender etiquette.

» Avoid language that is difficult to understand.

» Watch your hand gestures and signals.

» Be polite around the table. These techniques will ensure smoother communication in multicultural settings and help all to align themselves with the culture and tradition of a place.

A TRIP TO ISRAEL: DEFYING EXPECTATIONS

wWhat do you think of when you think of Israel as a travel destination? Maybe you think of holy sites straight out of the Bible. Maybe you have questions about security or internal strife. Perhaps you even think of “startup nation,” its more recent nickname due to a vibrant hi-tech ecosystem. Whatever the perception, the Israel Ministry of Tourism is determined to broaden the perspective in the student travel community. In February 2023, they invited representatives of a few student tour companies on a FAM (familiarization) tour in hopes that we would return home and spread the good word.

Just the size of New Jersey, we quickly found that Israel is as multicultural and diverse as New York City. Like New York, there are pockets of homogenous groups living among themselves surrounded by areas of people of all backgrounds living in integrated communities. The Old City of Jerusalem is sacred to Judaism, Islam and Christianity, and it doesn’t take long walking around its sunlit streets and narrow alleys before you see representatives of all three faiths. Our plan was to spend a day in Tel Aviv touring old Jaffa, then meeting with Israeli tour operators who would be resources in helping us plan future trips.

Then we’d head north to explore historic sites, geologic wonders, and a kibbutz before heading back to Jerusalem and on to the Dead Sea.

If there is anything that a destination as ancient and diverse as Israel has, it’s layers. Few other destinations offer such an intricate weaving of faith, culture food, and history. Just hours into the trip our guide, Ygal, was already educating us on how it all fits together so tightly. A short drive from Tel Aviv, Caesarea, where King Herod built his port city and the new Christian Apostle Paul stopped several times, was one of our first stops. Just in the 300 yards or so we covered at the site, we had spanned 1,500 years of history.

These layers further manifested later in the city of Akko. There, we saw a small town that enveloped an ancient castle and fort built by Christian Crusaders in the 13th century. It was also besieged, unsuccessfully, by Napoleon. Above what would have been street level for the crusaders was a second level of streets, this belonging to the Ottomans. And still farther up is today’s modern street level, where we had a dinner workshop hosted by a Druze woman. We learned all about this secretive sect whose beliefs encompass

BY DAVE HENLEY, Vice President of Operations, Grand Classroom

elements of each of the three Abrahamic religions, as well as elements of Hindu and Buddhism. And the food was divine!

Throughout my trip, there was a constant metamorphosis of concern shifting to joy. One of my best memories was shaped by this very issue. It was the start of Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest which begins at sunset on Friday night, and I spotted a group of about 75 soldiers in a circle intermixed with civilians. Suddenly, a small group rushed forward and broke into jubilant song. Others joined and soon other songs broke out too—all unorganized and unscripted. Eventually, the entire circle was dancing and singing, arm in arm as the sun set over the most holy site where Jews are allowed to pray. The scene perfectly encapsulated the experience we had in Israel: It defied expectations. It also exceeded them.

All in all, my perception of Israel was changed by this journey. I thought the trip would be heavy with tension and a need to constantly be looking over my shoulder. It was not lost on me that the Jewish people have felt like that for thousands of years. Now that they have a state of their own, they want it to be the best in the world. The best way to judge, though, is to see for yourself.

FINDING HOME

aAs I arrive in Florence, Italy in the summer of 2022, I stare at the magnificent Arno River—my grandfather’s favorite place in his home country. I reminisce on the stories I have heard of my family’s memories and life in Florence. The rustic streets are filled with shoppers who graze over the maroon-colored leather bags.

I would love to stay and shop but the sun is setting over Ponte Vecchio and I know it’s time to head to my great aunt’s apartment for dinner. Walking up her stairs, I fear what awaits me through her doors. Will I get along with my Italian family? What if they judge me?

I stop overthinking and open the door anyway, instantly I am hit with the smell of tomatoes roasting in the oven and see the handmade pasta boiling on the stove. I am greeted with love and hugs from family members I have never met before, and a smile sets on my face. My aunt rests her hands on my shoulders, looks me in the eyes, and says “My beautiful Lexi I have missed you”. In a country so far from home, I have never felt more at home and welcomed.

The apartment is humid and barely has enough room for one, let alone eleven of us, but we manage to cram together at the table. My aunt carries over the mouthwatering home-cooked meal she prepared. As all eleven of us are enjoying the food we are laughing, smiling, and relishing in each other’s company, and these experiences are what make traveling so worthwhile. The memories and stories from the table are lifelong and full of beautiful souls who I learned so much from. Tears water through my eyes as gratitude fills my soul.

Throughout the rest of my trip in Italy, I got to explore the breathtaking streets filled with gelaterias and hand-holding couples, learn the fascinating culture and history at the Uffizi, eat exquisite food that American dishes will never live up to, and meet new family members that I now have life long memories with. By spending two weeks in Italy, I have lasting feelings of contentment and curiosity, I was able to see and experience moments that taught me there is a whole world out there waiting for me to see.

BY LEXI SERRA

For the past 11 years, I have been learning through the traditional education system. High school has been hard for me, I had to experience and cope with COVID, was admitted to residential eating disorder treatment, and lost a lot of friends to the conformity of high school standards. Although I have learned so much throughout these years at school, nothing has opened and expanded my mind more than traveling.

The lessons learned in school will never live up to the education provided by traveling, helping others, learning new cultures and ways of life, and experiencing the beauties of the world. Traveling has become a part of my life I cherish so deeply. The world has so much to offer, so much more to learn and explore and I hope to never stop making memories and experiencing life’s beauties.

Lexi Serra, 17, is in the 11th grade at Glenbrook North in Northbrook, Illinois.

THE LESSONS LEARNED IN SCHOOL WILL NEVER LIVE UP TO THE EDUCATION PROVIDED BY TRAVELING.